Downward Angle Icon An icon in the shape of a downward angle. Young travelers want unique vacation experiences. Westend61/Getty Images Intrepid Travel's Matt Barna says younger travelers are looking for immersive and unique experiences, with some opting to skip popular tourist attractions in favor of so-called “destination ducks.” He said some people do. For example, book a vacation in Seoul instead of Tokyo.
Millennial and Gen Z travelers are overcoming the tourist trap.
Matt Barna, president of small group travel company Intrepid Travel, told Business Insider that his company has seen a shift away from destinations that are popular with travelers between the ages of 18 and 35.
Berna said younger travelers aren't stuck with the FOMO, or “fear of missing out,” that affected older generations. Instead, they want to set the tone.
“They want to go to the next cool place and be trendsetters,” he says.
As a result, more and more young people are booking so-called “destination ducks”, which are more affordable and less crowded than well-known locations.
Intrepid Travel has compiled a list of destinations travelers should consider this year.
Visit Corsica instead of Positano.
Corsica.John Walker/Shutterstock
The Mediterranean island of Corsica is a good alternative to Positano, a cliffside village on Italy's Amalfi Coast, according to Intrepid Travel.
“Unlike Positano's busy and touristy atmosphere, Corsica offers a quieter and more peaceful environment, where travelers can relax and soak up the island's quiet and peaceful atmosphere. ” the company said.
In Corsica, “travelers can explore the island's natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and diverse activities, avoiding the crowds often associated with popular tourist destinations, and enjoy a more authentic, quiet, and immersive experience. ,” the company added.
Please visit Seoul instead of Tokyo.
Seoul.Joe Soum/Vision of America/Contributor/Getty Images
Japan's tourism industry is booming, with a record 3.1 million tourists visiting in March this year.
Seoul is the perfect destination for travelers who want to explore big Asian cities like Tokyo while avoiding crowded tourist spots.
“Seoul offers an authentic and immersive cultural experience, allowing travelers to explore Korea's traditional customs, art and lifestyle in a dynamic, modern urban environment,” said Intrepid. Travel said. “This experience provides a deeper understanding of Korea's rich cultural heritage, which may be difficult to access in popular tourist destinations around the world.”
Visit Panama instead of Barcelona.
Panama.Martin Burnetti/Getty Images
Intrepid Travel told BI that travelers should consider adding Panama to their bucket list instead of Barcelona.
“Panama's diverse natural landscape, including lush rainforests, exotic wildlife and pristine beaches, provides an attractive backdrop for nature lovers and adventure seekers,” the company said. .
The adventure travel company added that Panama has a “vibrant cultural scene influenced by indigenous traditions, Afro-Caribbean roots, and Spanish culture.” “We offer a dynamic and diverse experience for travelers who want to immerse themselves in local tradition, folklore and contemporary art, offering an authentic and enriching journey that differs from the Eurocentric cultural landscape of Barcelona.”
Instead of going from Split to Dubrovnik, you will be traveling from Kefalonia to Corfu.
Corfu Island.David C. Tomlinson/Getty
Those looking to traverse the Croatian coastline may also like to island-hop across the Ionian Sea near Greece.
Intrepid Travel said: “Sail through the most beautiful Greek islands in the Ionian Sea.” “Travelers can visit secluded coastlines, private islands, lush rolling hills and orchards, historic Venetian architecture, warm and inviting taverns, and some of the clearest azure waters in the world. Masu.”
The company added: “With unspoilt landscapes and pristine beaches, the islands from Kefalonia to Corfu offer a peaceful haven for travelers seeking a quiet escape from crowded destinations.” added.
Borneo tour around Bali.
Borneo.Ulstein Bild/Getty Images
Bali is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia, but travelers can find a similar vibe in Borneo, according to Intrepid Travel.
Intrepid Travel said: “While Bali is undoubtedly a stunning destination with beautiful beaches and a rich cultural heritage, Borneo offers an entirely different experience that is unparalleled in its own right.”
The company said Borneo has a “rich cultural tapestry” influenced by indigenous communities who have preserved their culture “for generations.”
Intrepid Travel said: “Travelers will be able to immerse themselves in the authentic lifestyle of local communities, participate in traditional ceremonies and gain valuable insight into the unique customs and beliefs that characterize Borneo's cultural heritage.” said. “By choosing Borneo over Bali, travelers can go beyond mere sightseeing and embark on a journey that deepens their understanding of the natural wonders and cultural richness that characterize this incredible destination.”